Aniene Reserve

In the Aniene Valley Natural Reserve (Riserva naturale della valle dell'Aniene) reforestation and preservation programmes have been applied to over 71,700 square metres of parkland.
The reserve covers an area of almost 620 hectares in a highly urbanised stretch of Rome. It was established in 1997 and is administered by Roma Natura (a local authority) with the scope of protecting and encouraging knowledge of river ecosystems. It is a very popular reserve because it lies in the city centre and is thus one of the main reserves for the preservation of local biodiversity.
Fauna and flora
In the valley, which is flat, there is an oak wood composed mostly of Turkey and downy oaks, whilst damper areas are populated by elms, willows, ashes and maples. As for animals, the presence of crayfish and freshwater crabs is an excellent bio indicator, given that they prosper in clean waters.
Reserve activities
Ponte Nomentano, a bridge built in the 6th century BC, is located in the vicinity of the Aniene Reserve. With its structure that dates back to medieval times and the Renaissance it has been depicted by countless painters across history. The Reserve offers activities similar to those of an urban park: bike tours, open-air sports, walks in nature. There is also the possibility of participating in many educational activities dedicated to environmental subjects, targeted specifically to students.